Yanka Kupala
State University of Grodno
THE SHOW IS PICKING UP MOMENTUM: HOW THE FACULTIES SURPRISED EVERYONE ON THE THIRD DAY OF THE "ALMA MATER" QUALIFYING ROUND
The first-year student competition at Kupala University is entering its home stretch! On October 21, the third day of the qualifying round took place. While the audience discusses fairy-tale images and bright performances, we're sharing the main highlights of the shows and taking a look at the final day's program.
On the third day, the Faculty of Pedagogy, the Faculty of Biology and Ecology, and the Faculty of Physical Education took to the stage.
The team from the Faculty of Pedagogy not only demonstrated artistry and creative abilities but also turned the stage into a real "Wonderland".
Students from the Faculty of Biology and Ecology also managed to surprise the audience. Thanks to their talent and detailed work on their images, the students immersed the entire hall in a mystical atmosphere.
The Faculty of Physical Education amazed the public with the most recognizable fairy-tale characters, and their spectacular numbers and acrobatic tricks left no one indifferent.
Today, Kupala University is anticipating the final day of the qualifying round, which promises to be no less vibrant! The Faculty of Psychology, the Faculty of History, Communication and Tourism, the Faculty of Arts and Design, and the Military Faculty will present their performances.
Dear students, don't miss it!
A TIME FOR GOOD DEEDS: "VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2026" CONTEST LAUNCHES AT YKSUG
Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno announces the "Volunteer of the Year 2026" contest. The project aims to foster the volunteer movement, promote its core values, and identify outstanding youth leaders. It is organized by the Volunteer Activity Centre, the primary trade union organization for students, and the university’s branch of the Belarusian Republican Youth Union.
The contest is open to full-time undergraduate and graduate students, as well as college students who are actively involved in volunteer work.
Winners will be selected in the following categories: "I Am a Volunteer", "Best Volunteer Team", "Best Volunteer Social Media Group" and "Best Volunteer Project".
Participants may enter multiple categories.
To participate, please submit your application documents to the Volunteer Activity Centre (Ozheshko Str., 22, Room 228) by November 13, and also send a digital copy to the following email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We invite all active volunteers to take part! Detailed information about the contest can be found in the official regulations.
Have questions? Please contact the Volunteer Activity Centre at Ozheshko Str., 22, Room 228, or by phone at (80152) 731986.
PHOTO FACT: STUDENTS AND STAFF OF YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO JOIN THE NATIONAL CAMPAIGN "GIVE THE FOREST NEW LIFE!"
Students and staff from Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno took part in the national campaign "Give the Forest New Life!". Working alongside the State Forestry Institution "Grodno Forestry" in the Neman Forestry District, the participants contributed to the restoration of forest resources and the preservation of Belarus’s natural wealth.
The campaign brought together representatives from various university faculties and departments. For the participants, this was not merely a practical effort to restore forest cover, but also an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of environmental stewardship. Working in organized groups, students and staff helped plant young trees and learned about the specifics of reforestation work.
As the participants noted, every tree planted is an investment in the future, an act of care for the environment, and a way to make our country even greener. Such initiatives foster an ecological mindset, unite young people, and demonstrate that real change begins with concrete actions.
FROM ETHNOCULTURE TO MODERN MEDIA: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE HELD AT YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO
On October 21, an international academic conference "Sociocultural and Ethno-Confessional Processes in Modern Society" began at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. The event has brought together 131 participants from five countries, serving as a vital platform for dialogue among scholars, experts, and young people.
The forum has attracted representatives from Belarus, Russia, China, Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic. Notably, students are actively participating in the discussions, more than 30 of them, including 15 from the Russian Federation.
"This conference serves as a traditional venue for discussing issues that are currently of concern to our country and the region. The focus is on sovereignty, state security, and integration-based cooperation. We are now in the digital age; whoever controls the algorithms, controls large groups of people. Our task is to understand how to harness these processes for the greater good, ensuring that digitalization helps address pressing challenges rather than becoming a threat. Furthermore, national ideological and symbolic codes are of key importance. This is a vast domain where our values, priorities, and behavioral models are established," noted Viktar Vatyl, Head of the Department of Political Science and Sociology at the Faculty of History, Communication and Tourism at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno.
Among the conference participants is Elena Kryazheva-Kartseva, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor, and Head of the Department of Russian History at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia.
"I am very pleased to be participating in this conference at the Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno." This is an excellent platform for dialogue among scholars and the esteemed academic community, including representatives from the Institute of Philosophy and the Institute of Sociology of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus. "My own work focuses on the marginalization of consciousness in the face of contemporary challenges", noted Elena Kryazheva-Kartseva. "We must recognize that today, wars have become cognitive in nature. They are aimed at destroying historical memory and transforming fundamental values. It is therefore crucial to discuss the mechanisms by which narratives are deployed and to collaboratively develop effective models for future engagement, including work with young people."
The opening ceremony was initiated by Natalia Bashun, Vice-Rector for Research at Kupala University. Welcoming the attendees on behalf of the Rector and the academic community of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno she highlighted the significance of the forum, which successfully upholds long-standing traditions. The Vice-Rector wished everyone a productive session, lively discussions, and the opportunity to forge not only professional ties but also lasting personal friendships.
Mikalai Sukhotski, Candidate of Sociological Sciences, Associate Professor, and Deputy Director for Research and Innovation at the Institute of Sociology of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, spoke about the unique mission of the modern researcher:
"The mission of a researcher in our century lies not in merely recording metrics, but in providing high-quality forecasting of long-term trends and equipping government authorities with the robust analytical foundations they so urgently need today".
Additionally, a welcoming address from the administration of the Institute of Philosophy of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus was read during the opening ceremony.
Following the official welcome, the participants proceeded to the presentation of papers. The conference program spans the entire day. In various breakout sessions, scholars will explore topics such as national and confessional processes, the development of the tourism industry, the phenomenon of temporal orientations, and the historical consciousness of society within the media landscape. Special attention will be devoted to issues of sovereignty, state security, and integration cooperation. In addition, the conference will feature an academic forum titled "Anthropological Challenges of Postmodernity".
The organizers are confident that the conference will once again serve as a prominent platform for discussing both high-level scholarly topics and issues of pressing concern to our country, the region and our university.
A MARK OF EXCELLENCE: YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO CONFIRMS ITS STATUS AS AN ACCREDITED SCIENTIFIC ORGANIZATION
On October 9, 2026, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno successfully completed the state recognition process for its competence in the fields of scientific, scientific-technical, and innovation-related activities. Following an assessment by an interdepartmental commission, comprising representatives from the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus and the State Committee on Science and Technology, the university’s status as a scientific organization was reaffirmed, with the issuance of an official certificate valid for five years.
Achieving this accreditation is the result of extensive, coordinated effort by the entire university community. The receipt of this certificate clearly demonstrates the consistently high scientific potential of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno and confirms that its activities align with the priority areas of the Republic of Belarus’s state policy on science, technology, and innovation.
This status as an accredited scientific organization opens up a wide range of strategic opportunities for the university. These include strengthening the integration of academic research with the real economy, implementing innovative developments, and expanding prospects for student-led startup projects. Furthermore, it will bolster the university’s position in the market for educational and research services, while enhancing its appeal to international partners.
Today, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno demonstrates that academic research is far more than just theoretical inquiry; it is a powerful, practice-oriented tool that anticipates the needs of the labor market, ensures economic security, and fosters the innovation potential of both the Grodno region and the country as a whole.
We congratulate the university’s leadership, faculty, postgraduate students, master’s students, and all those dedicated to scientific pursuits on this significant achievement! We wish you not to rest on your laurels, but to scale new scientific heights, bring your boldest projects to life, and generate ideas that will change the world for the better!
"CARING, BRAVE, BEST FRIEND": YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO HONORS FATHERS
Father’s Day is a special occasion, a time to express our love for those who are always by our side. To mark the day, student organizations at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, the Student Trade Union Committee, the University Student Council and the Belarusian Republican Youth Union organized a truly heartfelt, themed event. It offered a wonderful opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to show their appreciation for the people closest to them.
As part of the event, participants were invited to contribute to a collective portrait of an "ideal father" by sharing words that best describe their own dads. Terms like "caring", "brave", "best friend" and "mentor", along with many others, filled the celebratory display boards, reflecting the depth and diversity of the students' feelings toward their fathers.
This touching initiative served as a gentle reminder of how important it is to cherish time spent with family and to say "thank you" to our parents, not just on special occasions, but every single day.
VIBRANT, UNPREDICTABLE, AND CHARISMATIC: A LOOK BACK AT THE SECOND DAY OF THE QUALIFYING ROUND FOR THE "ALMA MATER – LOVE AT FIRST YEAR" COMPETITION
On October 20, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted the second day of the qualifying round for the "Alma Mater – Love at First Year-2026" competition. Once again, students showcased a wealth of original ideas and boundless energy.
The Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Philology and the Faculty of Law presented their own unique performances.
First-year students from the Faculty of Engineering delivered a show that combined technical precision, talent, and unexpected plot twists.
The Faculty of Philology captivated the audience with powerful spoken-word segments, charisma, and dynamic dance routines.
The final group to take the stage was the first-year students from the Faculty of Law. They put on a striking performance that took the audience on an emotional journey, from unbridled joy and sadness to moments of breathtaking shock.
Today, the third day of the qualifying round promises to be just as vibrant! First-year students from the Faculty of Pedagogy, the Faculty of Biology and Ecology, and the Faculty of Physical Education will be showcasing their talents.
We invite everyone to come along and show their support!
FROM MOSCOW TO LANZHOU: HOW KUPALA UNIVERSITY STUDENTS EXPERIENCED EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
Eight third-year students from the Faculty of Economics and Management at Kupala University have temporarily change their home classrooms to lecture halls in Russia, Kazakhstan and China. We learned how our students are trained in academic mobility programs and get acquainted with another culture.
Third-year students Anna Shut and Seviaryna Mazol, both majoring in "Electronic Economics", are currently studying at the St. Petersburg University of Management Technologies and Economics. According to them, studying at a different institution offers a fresh perspective on familiar subjects, introduces them to diverse teaching methods, and allows them to become part of a new student community.
"It’s fascinating to encounter different teaching styles and discuss assignments with new classmates. This experience helps me express my thoughts with greater confidence and gain a clearer understanding of my own academic interests", shared Anna Shut.
Seviaryna Mazol echoed this sentiment, noting that a particularly valuable aspect of the experience is how academic study at another university blends seamlessly with making new friends and exploring a new city.
Meanwhile, third-year students Nikita Khilko, specialty "Electronic Economics", and Pavel Lapitski, specialty "Economics and Management", are gaining international academic experience in Astana. They are participating in an academic mobility program at the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. Studying in Kazakhstan provides an opportunity to engage with a different academic environment and develop cross-cultural communication skills.
"For me, the most interesting part is seeing how education is structured at another university and interacting with students who bring different backgrounds and perspectives," noted Nikita Khilko.
Three students from the Faculty of Economics and Management at Kupala University are currently studying in Moscow at the HSE University. They include third-year students Daniil Tsyntsevich and Volha Mandryk, specialty "World Economy", as well as Anastasia Lobik, specialty "Finance and Credit". For them, academic mobility offers an opportunity to broaden their educational experience, explore a new environment, and pursue their professional interests.
Daniil Tsyntsevich noted that studying in a new setting has provided a significant boost to his personal and professional growth:
"Academic mobility allows you to test yourself in a new environment. When you enter a different educational setting, you begin to re-evaluate your strengths and gain a clearer understanding of which skills you should focus on developing. This experience provides extra motivation for your studies".
Another student participating in an academic mobility program is Matsvei Smiatanka, a third-year student majoring in World Economy. He is currently studying at Lanzhou City University in China. His educational journey combines academic coursework at a foreign institution with exposure to a different culture. As he shared, the trip to China has been an entirely new experience, and he is thoroughly enjoying his studies.
Although they are in different countries and universities, these students share a common drive for new knowledge and a willingness to embrace unfamiliar challenges. For them, academic mobility is more than just studying away from their home university. It is an experience that fosters independent decision-making, new connections, and personal growth.
We wish these students a successful academic journey and many exciting discoveries!
A GOLDEN SNATCH IN ALBANIA: STUDENT OF YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO TRIUMPHS AT THE EUROPEAN JUNIOR WEIGHTLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIPS!
Artsiom Rahazhynski, a second-year extramural student of the Faculty of Physical Education at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, has won a gold medal at the European Junior Weightlifting Championships currently taking place in Albania.
Competing in the +109 kg weight category for athletes under 20, the Belarusian weightlifter successfully completed all three of his attempts in the snatch—lifting 160 kg, 165 kg, and 169 kg. This performance secured him a decisive victory in this specific discipline and earned him a small gold medal at the tournament.
We congratulate Artsiom on this outstanding achievement and wish him many more brilliant victories to come! We are proud that a student from our university is among the strongest weightlifters in Europe.
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FAIRYTALES VERSUS PRECISE CALCULATIONS: THE MOST VIBRANT CONTEST OF THE AUTUMN, "ALMA MATER – LOVE AT FIRST YEAR," BEGAN AT YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO
On October 19, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted the first day of the qualifying round for the university’s traditional contest, "Alma Mater – Love at First Year-2026". The first to take the stage were students from the Faculty of Physics and Technology, the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, and the Faculty of Economics and Management.
"Alma Mater – Love at First Year" has long been an integral part of student life at the university and is rightfully considered one of its most spectacular events. The contest offers a unique opportunity for first-year students to make their mark and unleash their creative potential early in their academic journey. Through various performing arts, the students explore the theme: "Conversations About What Matters!"
From the very first seconds of their performance, the Physico-Technical Faculty immersed the audience in an atmosphere of pure magic, featuring a wealth of recognizable fairytale imagery and vivid, creative acts.
The Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, for its part, delivered an electrifying show. The students clearly demonstrated that the formula for their successful performance consists of talent, energy, and a powerful team spirit.
The Faculty of Economics and Management was equally impressive. The first-year students put on an unforgettable performance, captivating the audience with incredible sets and stunning stage acting.
The qualifying round continues! Today, students from the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Philology, and the Faculty of Law will showcase their talents on stage.
We invite the entire university community to come along and cheer for their favorites!
FROM GRODNO TO MAKHACHKALA: YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO REPRESENTATIVE ATTENDS TRADE UNION CONGRESS IN DAGESTAN
Anna Sazonava, chair of the trade union organization at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, took part in the 39th Congress of the Eurasian Association of University Trade Union Organizations as a member of the delegation from the Republic of Belarus. The event, held in Makhachkala from October 12 to 14, was aimed at facilitating the exchange of experience and exploring youth initiatives and the cultural traditions of the Republic of Dagestan. The forum brought together representatives from 41 universities across four countries.
The choice of Makhachkala as the host city was significant, as Dagestan State University celebrated its 95th anniversary on October 8, 2026.
The congress program was extensive. On the first day, participants visited a branch of Dagestan State University in the ancient city of Derbent. During the plenary sessions, a book titled “Those Who Stepped into Immortality” by Professor Vladimir Vasiliev of Chuvash State University in collaboration with representatives from YKSUG was presented. Additionally, the third edition of an almanac featuring creative works by finalists of the “Constellation of Talents” competition was unveiled; the collection includes contributions from four individuals associated with Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno.
The second day of the congress was dedicated to professional discussions. Members of the Belarusian Trade Union of Education and Science Workers delegation presented their projects and initiatives to their international counterparts. The parties exchanged experiences and explored prospects for future cooperation. As part of the second day’s agenda, participants also visited the Sarykum sand dunes – a unique scientific, historical, and tourist landmark. On the final day of the congress, members of the Belarusian delegation took part in a celebratory event marking the 95th anniversary of Dagestan State University, where they shared ideas and new approaches for promoting the trade union movement. The congress concluded on a heartfelt note with a literary gathering in memory of Rasul Gamzatov, during which the Belarusian delegates recited the poem “A Word About Mother”. The recitation was particularly moving, as October 14th is celebrated as Mother’s Day in the Republic of Belarus.
Anna Sazonava noted that the congress not only provided an opportunity to strengthen ties but also served as a source of renewed energy:
"Participating in the congress of the Eurasian Association of University Trade Union Organizations was a truly memorable experience. It is a unique platform for generating new ideas and building valuable connections. Exchanging experiences with colleagues from various countries, engaging in lively discussions on pressing issues, and working together to find solutions, all of this is incredibly energizing and provides a powerful impetus for future endeavors".
Taking part in such international events has made it possible not only to share expertise and discover new ideas for the trade union movement but also to reinforce existing professional relationships.
LANGUAGE, MEDIA, AND DIALOGUE: REPRESENTATIVE FROM YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO SPEAKS AT INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CONFERENCE IN MOGILEV
A.A. Kuleshov Mogilev State University hosted the 2nd International Educational Conference, "The Russian Language in the Context of Multiculturalism".
The conference addressed a range of topics, including modern paradigms for teaching English as a foreign language, challenges of intercultural communication in the teaching of Russian as a foreign language, the role of the Russian language in a multi-ethnic society, issues of interlingual interference and the ecology of the linguistic environment, cultural dialogue in a multilingual setting and Russian literature within the global cultural and educational landscape.
The event brought together academic centers from six countries: Belarus, Russia, Azerbaijan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Italy, and Cuba.
Tatsiana Sivava, an associate professor in the Department of Journalism, presented a paper titled "Color-Based Periphrasis as a Means of Representing Temporal Meanings". Her presentation explored the specific characteristics and formation of periphrastic expressions involving color terms that convey temporal meanings, as found in Russian-language Belarusian media texts.
A collection of academic papers based on the
conference proceedings will be published. It will be made available via open
access through the Russian Science Electronic Library (elibrary.ru)
and indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI).
"I WANT TO RETURN HERE AS THE MOTHER OF A UNIVERSITY STUDENT!": HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 3RD OPEN PARENT MEETING AT KUPALA UNIVERSITY
Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted a large-scale open meeting for parents, featuring Rector Iryna Kiturka. This innovative format for engaging with the families of prospective students—pioneered in the country by Kupala University—drew over 500 attendees to the university’s assembly hall, with an additional 150+ viewers tuning in via a live stream on the official YouTube channel.
The primary objective of the meeting was to provide parents and high school students with comprehensive, reliable information to help them chart a successful educational and career path.
The event kicked off with a vibrant performance by the "Kroki" stylized dance studio.
Iryna Kiturka, Rector of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, Doctor of Historical Sciences and a professor, delivered a welcoming address and a detailed presentation.
"At the start of each academic year, as part of 'Parental Love Week,' we traditionally invite the parents of graduating high school students to an open meeting—this is the third time we have held an event in this format," noted Iryna Kiturka. "High school students and their families are now entering a critical phase: it is time to choose not only a future profession but also the university where they will pursue their studies. Our university’s mission is to identify, unlock, and realize the potential of every student and staff member—that is truly what we strive for."
In her address, the Rector outlined key milestones in the university’s history—from its origins as a Teachers' Institute in 1940 to its current status as a leading regional center for education, science, and culture.
Today, Kupala University comprises 13 faculties and 4 colleges, offering a multi-level system of continuous education. The university features a unique digital ecosystem called "Smart University," which includes a personal student account, a mobile class schedule, an electronic grade book, and 100% access to study materials from anywhere in the world. It holds a recognized international reputation, appearing in prestigious global rankings (such as Webometrics, THE Impact Rankings, and UI GreenMetric). Furthermore, one in five full-time students is an international citizen—with over 2,500 international students representing 32 countries. Additionally, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is a five-time recipient of the Government of the Republic of Belarus Prize for achievements in quality.
During her presentation, the Rector highlighted the social support system, noting that students can receive tuition discounts of up to 60%, transition to state-funded (tuition-free) spots, and access financial stipends or grants from a fund dedicated to supporting talented youth.
The university offers an ideal environment for prospective students, ranging from standard admission pathways to an increased number of spots for targeted training programs, as well as admission without entrance exams for top-performing students (medalists) and winners of academic Olympiads.
During an "open microphone" session, parents had the opportunity to ask the Rector questions directly. Topics included benefits for orphans, admission pathways for graduates of specialized pedagogical high school classes, opportunities for pursuing master’s and doctoral (postgraduate) degrees, and various other matters.
Following the formal proceedings and a musical performance by soloists from the "Unison" studio, the parent meeting transitioned to interactive zones. Guests were able to speak with Avak Vartanian, Executive Secretary of the Admissions Committee, as well as the deans of all 13 faculties. Families learned about admission score thresholds, the specifics of various academic programs and post-graduation job placement, and explored the university’s athletic and creative opportunities.
"Every October, we hold this event, where all of our university’s faculties are represented." "Here, parents can speak directly with the rector, deans, and faculty members, learn about the specifics of the training provided in each field of study, and get answers to any questions—including those regarding upcoming changes to the admissions process—from the admissions committee staff. For families from the Grodno region and other parts of Belarus, this is a wonderful opportunity to see the university in person," noted Avak Vartanian.
Parents showed particular interest in a meeting with prospective employers. Representatives from various enterprises and organizations in the Grodno region discussed high-demand professions, the nature of future internships, and guaranteed job placement.
For many families, this open dialogue serves as an excellent chance not only to learn about admission requirements firsthand but also to get acquainted with the faculties, teaching staff, and the future student environment. Among the attendees was Palina Prakapenya, a high school student from Secondary School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty. She has already decided on her professional path:
"I am considering the 'Jurisprudence' program at the Faculty of Law. I have always gravitated toward the humanities, and I am especially fascinated by the history of Belarus."
Tatsiana Prokopenya supports her daughter’s choice, as she herself was once part of the extended Kupala University family:
"I graduated from the Faculty of History in 2004 and defended my master’s thesis here in 2009. Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is my alma mater. I look back on the years spent within these walls with great warmth—they were the best of times. Today, I was reminded once again that Kupala University is truly the best."
Evialina Shchuka, another student from School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty, is also drawn to the Faculty of Law, specifically the "Jurisprudence" program.
Her mother, Sviatlana Shchuka, shared her impressions of the open meeting:
"The meeting left a wonderful impression. All the information was presented clearly and accessibly, and the event was organized to a very high standard. The university has truly captured our interest. Naturally, I’m now very keen to return here—this time as the mother of a university student!"
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Higher education in the Republic of Belarus
